The Stats on Women & Hollywood

Women comprise only 23% of film critics at daily newspapers. (San Diego State)

In 2007, women only comprised 15% of all directors, executive producers, writers, cinematographers, and editors working on the top 250 grossing films. (San Diego State)

In 2007, only 6% of the top 250 grossing films were directed by women. (San Diego State)

In 2007, only 5 of the top 50 films starred or were focused on women.

Of the 6,833 single speaking characters in the film nominated for best picture from 1977-2006 only 27.3% were females. (USC)

Women make up 27% of TV writers and 19% of film writers (WGAW)

In 2006, less than a dozen of the 307 films eligible for an Oscar were women driven (EW).

In 2006, only 3 movies in the top 50 starred or were focused on women. (EW)

Why focus on Women & Hollywood?

Ever notice that most of the films in mainstream Hollywood are by and about boys? Women & Hollywood does and is tired of it. Women & Hollywood will focus on bringing attention to the films, TV shows, theatre and other entertainment that highlights women and our contribution to the culture.

This blog will focus on what's going on for women in Hollywood: what movies are being made; what directors are getting jobs; what projects actors are working; and will call attention to the continuous disparity that dominates Hollywood.

Hollywood

November 8, 2007

Nina's Heavenly Delights - a delightful filmPut this film on your list when it comes to your town- Nina's Heavenly Delights, directed by Pratibha Parmar, one of the most fun and uplifting films I've seen in a long time. It's the story of a Scottish woman of Indian descent who returns home after her father's sudden death and winds up taking his place in a nationally televised curry cooking competition. The film deals with so many important issues like assimilation, family, being true to yourself all wrapped up in a whole lot of Bollywood fun. It really reminded me of the wonderful tone that I loved in Bend it Like Beckham. Film also has a great soundtrack.

Look for it in LA on November 21, NY on November 30, Portland, OR on December 28. other cities will roll out in early 2008. More info: Nina's Heavenly Delights

This column from the LA Times's Oscar columnist Gold Derby pisses me off. The headline is: Can Being Pregnant Help Helena and Cate to win Oscars? The column then goes on to discuss pregnant nominees who have and haven't won Oscars when pregnant. I find this so retro. Let's keep our eye on the ball. The issue we should be discussing is the lack of opportunities and roles for all actresses.